ChapterTwo

We mounted our horses and after a few moments of silence, my guilt prompted me to tell Vidanric that I had known of Flauvic's magic – and had done nothing about it.

Vidanric shrugged it off. "First of all, magic itself is not bad. I have often wished that I could learn magic …"

"You could get us a pair of those cloaks": I interrupted. Vidanric smiled, and continued.

"Flauvic was a master of keeping his motives hidden as we discovered today. I'm sure there are many today who will be wondering what piece of the puzzle they overlooked."

We arrived at Merindar House, then, and our conversation was minimal as we made short work of the Marquise's papers, which contained nothing more than letters and invitations.

Flauvic's rooms held even less. There were few papers to speak of; we did find a stack of books that we identified as his magic books.

"We should burn them," I said emphatically as Vidanric leafed through the pages.

"We need them as evidence," he answered absently. "However, it is quite certain we do not want their secrets discovered."

We collected all of them, for Vidanric told me he had a locked archive for just such sensitive material. Much of Galdran's papers were there, as a record of that particularly nasty bit of our history.

Vidanric was visibly relieved as the key to the locked archive was tucked away. I could see exhaustion pulling at him, but instead of suggesting that we retire to our rooms – which I think we had certainly earned – he turned to me. "We will have to explain what happened here – and quickly; before the rumors begin. Do you wish me to leave your part out?"

My immediate answer would have been yes, but then I remembered his words on ruling being a partnership, and felt instantly guilty for abandoning him. So I replied, "I want to be there with you." Of course, I had no idea what he was planning on doing. Maybe I would regret it.

"Let's go find my parents; together we develop a plan." He led the way back to the private State rooms.

He paused with his hand on the doorknob, "Please do not feel that standing with me today is in any way indicative of your choice in futures. I will not speak of it, unless you wish it."

"I do want to stand with you, and I think I want to rule with you – but can that part be private – I want some time to digest it without the advice of Court busybodies."

"Now that, Lady Meliara, is the perfect description of the purpose of a court," he said wryly, moving to open the door. I stopped him with a hand on his arm, and stood on my tiptoes for a quick kiss, which threatened to become much deeper.

After a moment, we both pulled away, and I wondered if I only imagined the faint reddening of embarrassment of being so open and bold on his cheekbones.

We entered what appeared to be a sitting room, where we found both the Prince and Princess sharing what appeared to be breakfast. I stood uncertainly at the door as Vidanric shook both of his parents awake.

"Danric." His mother's voice was high and fluting even as she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. "What are you doing back so soon?"

"It's much later than you think, Mother. I will explain in just a moment. First, may I present Lady Meliara who was most influential in the events that just transpired."

"We are glad to have you on our side." The prince gave a grave nod. "Though I sincerely hope there is no more need for sides?" He addressed Vidanric.

"No, Father. It is well and truly over."